No logo: why World Cup sponsors are boycotting Mexico’s star Rafael Marquez

The player has been accused of being a front for a cartel boss and US brands could face $10m fines if they engage with him

For wheezing footballers of a certain age, Rafael Marquez is an inspiration. For a number of international brands, however, he is turning out to be a nightmare.

The Mexican defender is appearing at his fifth World Cup this summer at the age of 39. Thought by many to be his country’s best ever player, he helped seal a glorious upset victory against Germany on Sunday. Arriving from the bench with 15 minutes remaining, at full time he was quickly escorted off again, just in case he was caught next to a sponsor’s logo.

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